Diego Forlan returns to coach Uruguay after disappointing FIFA World Cup exit

The Uruguayan Football Association (AUF) confirmed on Thursday that the former striker will take charge of both the senior national team and the Under-20 side after Marcelo Bielsa stepped down following the World Cup.

In a brief statement, the AUF said: "Diego Forlan is coming home to take charge of the Under-20 national team and the senior national team."

Forlan's appointment follows several weeks of negotiations and he is expected to begin in an interim role. His current agreement covers Uruguay's international friendlies in September, October and March, although the deal includes the option of a longer stay.

The change comes after Uruguay endured another frustrating World Cup campaign. The two-time world champions failed to progress beyond the group stage for the second tournament in a row.

Draws against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde left Uruguay under pressure before a defeat to eventual champions Spain confirmed their early elimination.

Bielsa came under heavy criticism during the tournament, with many questioning his tactics. He was also criticised for bringing veteran goalkeeper Fernando Muslera out of international retirement, with the experienced shot-stopper making several costly mistakes during the competition.

Forlan now faces the challenge of rebuilding confidence despite having limited coaching experience.

The 47-year-old first moved into management with Uruguayan giants Penarol in 2020, but left after just 11 matches following a poor run of results. His only other managerial role came in 2021 when he spent 12 games in charge of second division club Atenas.

Although his coaching career is still in its early stages, Forlan remains one of Uruguay's greatest footballers.

He scored 36 goals in 112 appearances for his country and played a leading role in Uruguay's run to the semi-finals of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, finishing the tournament with five goals and winning the Golden Ball as the competition's best player.

Forlan also helped Uruguay lift the 2011 Copa America alongside long-time strike partner Luis Suarez.

At club level, he enjoyed outstanding success in Spain with Villarreal and Atletico Madrid, winning the European Golden Shoe during spells with both clubs. He also spent three seasons at Manchester United, where he won the Premier League title in the 2002/03 campaign.